What Information Systems and Software Are Used in the Functional Units of an Enterprise? 

An information system is a set of hardware, software, data, people, and procedures that work together to produce information. In an enterprise, the individual functional units have specialized requirements for their information systems. Accounting and fi nancial systems manage transactions and help budget, forecast, and analyze. A human resources information system (HRIS) manages human resources functions. An employee relationship management ( ERM ) system automates and manages communications between employees and the business. Computer-aided design (CAD) assists engineers in product design, and computer-aided engineering (CAE) tests product designs. Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) controls production equipment, and computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM) integrates operations in the manufacturing process. Material Requirements Planning (MRP) uses software to help monitor and control processes related to production. A quality control system helps an organization maintain or improve the quality of its products or services and typically includes quality control software. A marketing information system serves as a central repository for marketing tasks. Sales force automation (SFA) software equips salespeople with the electronic tools they need. Distribution systems control inventory, manage and track shipping, and provide information and analysis on warehouse inventory. Customer interaction management (CIM) software manages day-to-day interactions with customers. Web site management programs collect data to help organizations make informed decisions regarding their Web presence. Security software enables the IT department to limit access to sensitive information.